How to Remove Windows 11 Bloatware
Is your Windows 11 computer running slow? It might be because of bloatware – those pre-installed apps that you never use. Removing them can free up space and make your PC faster. Here’s a quick guide to help you get rid of Windows 11 bloatware. First, we’ll use the Settings app to uninstall programs. Then, we’ll dive into using PowerShell for a more thorough cleanup. It’s straightforward: follow the steps below to reclaim your computer’s performance.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Remove Windows 11 Bloatware
Ready to clean up your computer? Let’s walk through the steps to remove bloatware from Windows 11. You’ll be using both the Settings app and PowerShell.
Step 1: Open Settings
Head to the Start menu and click on the Settings icon.
To find the Settings icon, look for a gear-shaped symbol. Clicking on it will open a new window.
Step 2: Go to Apps
In the Settings menu, select ‘Apps’ from the sidebar.
The Apps section will show you a list of all installed programs on your computer.
Step 3: Uninstall Unwanted Apps
Click on the app you want to remove, then select ‘Uninstall.’
A confirmation box will pop up asking if you’re sure. Click ‘Uninstall’ again to remove the app.
Step 4: Open PowerShell as Admin
Right-click the Start menu and select ‘Windows Terminal (Admin).’
PowerShell allows you to remove apps that can’t be uninstalled through Settings.
Step 5: List Installed Apps
Type in Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName and press Enter.
This command will give you a list of all pre-installed apps on your computer.
Step 6: Remove Specific Apps
To remove an app, type Remove-AppxPackage PackageFullName and press Enter.
Replace ‘PackageFullName’ with the actual package name from the list you generated earlier.
Step 7: Restart Your Computer
After removing unwanted apps, restart your computer to apply the changes.
A reboot ensures that all the changes take effect and clears any temporary files.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll notice a cleaner, faster computer. The bloatware will be gone, freeing up space and resources.
Tips for Removing Windows 11 Bloatware
- Backup Your Data First: Always make sure you have a backup of important files before making changes.
- Be Selective: Only remove apps you are sure you don’t need. Some pre-installed apps might be necessary for system functions.
- Use Third-Party Tools: There are third-party utilities designed to help clean up bloatware more efficiently.
- Update Regularly: Keeping your system updated ensures you have the latest tools and improvements for managing bloatware.
- Research Unknown Apps: If you’re unsure about an app, look it up to see if it’s something you might need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bloatware?
Bloatware refers to pre-installed software that you likely don’t need and that takes up space on your device.
Is it safe to remove bloatware?
Yes, but ensure you know what each app does before removing it. Some might be important for system stability.
Can I reinstall bloatware if I need it later?
Yes, most bloatware can be reinstalled from the Microsoft Store.
Will removing bloatware speed up my computer?
Yes, removing unnecessary apps can free up resources, making your computer faster.
Do I need admin rights to remove bloatware?
Yes, you’ll need admin rights to uninstall certain pre-installed apps, especially using PowerShell.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps.
- Uninstall Unwanted Apps.
- Open PowerShell as Admin.
- List Installed Apps.
- Remove Specific Apps.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
There you have it – a straightforward guide on how to remove Windows 11 bloatware. By following these steps, you can boost your computer’s performance and free up valuable resources. Remember to back up your data and be cautious about what you remove. If you’re unsure, researching the app can save you from potential headaches. For those who want to dig deeper, plenty of third-party tools can assist in this process. So, go ahead and give your Windows 11 a fresh start. Your computer will thank you!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.